If you don’t currently own or lease your own drinking water system in your home such as reverse osmosis, you may know someone who does. If still this doesn’t relate to you, then you may know less about tap water these days than you thought. Sure, the United States has some of the best drinking water in the world but even the water treatment from public water systems isn’t perfect and can contain contaminants that put you and your family’s health at risk. Between the contaminants that are not tested or regulated to those that get into your water between treatment and entering your home’s pipes, RO systems are an advantage to any household big or small.

But for many, there are mysteries associated with reverse osmosis. How does RO work? Where do the contaminants go? Is the resulting water really that much better? Knowing how RO systems work can certainly help solve some of the mystery and help grow an appreciation for the wonders of drinking water technology these days.

Reverse osmosis drinking water systems come in all shapes and sizes as well as effectiveness and efficiency. The main principle is the same, however. The key word for this process is “reverse.” Likewise, the word “osmosis” means the passage or diffusion of water or other solvents through a membrane that blocks the passage of dissolved solutes. To explain a little further in depth, the RO system works by forcing water under pressure through a special synthetic semi-permeable membrane. The membrane has the astounding quality of attracting water molecules and repelling dissolved impurities, even those smaller than the water molecules themselves.

We are excited to share this advantage with the world – we waste less water and produce more quality drinking water. Enjoy safe, pure tap water without the worries that unfiltered water can produce. Want to learn more? Contact us today or visit our website at http://rayneoffullerton.com/. We look forward to improving the quality of your drinking water!

The last several years, homeowners all over Orange County have experienced various plumbing issues; from lead leaching into their drinking water and pinhole leaks in their plumbing to early corrosion of rubber plumbing parts. The only correlation between all of these plumbing problems stems from one source – chloramine in the water supply. So what exactly IS chloramine and why is it causing so many problems?

Chloramine is used as a disinfectant by several municipal water companies, it is a combination of chlorine and ammonia and these two chemicals work together to extend the disinfecting power of chlorine. While they might extend the life of chlorine, they are not nearly as effective as chlorine. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) determined that it is anywhere from 2,000 to 100,000 times less effective than free chlorine for the inactivation of E. Coli and rotaviruses. In addition to that, chloramine has some serious drawbacks other than plumbing as well.

Respiratory problems have also been reported with chloramine use; the fumes can cause individuals to become congested, cause coughing, choking, shortness of breath, wheezing and asthma. The vapor from chloramine treated water in baths, showers, hot tubs and dishwashers contain volatilized chemicals that can irritate the respiratory tract when inhaled. One study even concluded that there was an increase in deaths from pneumonia and influenza in communities where chloramine was used as a disinfectant.  

Water treatment companies are making the switch over to chloramine because it is a more stable compound and lasts longer in the water, which will inhibit bacterial regrowth in water systems. The problem is that homeowners are bearing the brunt end of this switch. Chloramine can cause lead to leach out of pipes and the risk for lead poisoning goes up with chloramine usage. Homeowners are experiencing pinhole leaks in pipes and as a result are out tens of thousands of dollars in repairs, especially if mold is involved.  

So what can homeowners do to alleviate all these potential consequences of chloramine usage? Well fortunately, the answer is easy. Rayne’s Chloramine Buster series of water filtration systems are equipped with a non-chemically impregnated activated carbon which enhances its capability to decompose compounds such as hydrogen sulfide and chloramine. They have the ability to filter out chloramine before it ever enters the house which means that homeowners will never have to worry about plumbing or health issues connected with chloramine usage. For more information on our line of Chloramine Buster’s you can visit our website.

Reports show that there are currently about 50,000 marijuana farms in the state of California. Not all of these farms are legal or following the regulations and guidelines set forth by the state to protect the groundwater and public health. In fact, only about 16,000 are predicted to apply for growing licenses next year! When farmers don’t follow proper growing procedures or use banned pesticides on their crops, it can affect the quality of our drinking water and experts have already begun to see issues with pesticide contamination in our water.

According to a recent report from U.S. News, these illegal marijuana farms hidden in the forests of California are leaking toxic chemicals into the rivers and streams that feed the state’s water supply. The presence of potentially deadly pollutants in eight Northern and Central California watersheds is the latest sign of damage to the environment from thousands of illegal cannabis plantations, many of them run by drug cartels serving customers in other states, according to law enforcement.

There is enough fear that both humans and animals may be at risk, to have officials working on a plan to address the issue. But while they take time and strategize for financial and business logistics, YOU need to do something to protect your family NOW! A home drinking water system which can filter your water at the tap can remove harmful contaminants leaving you with safe, quality drinking water regardless of what is currently controllable when it comes to how marijuana farmers are running their business.

We don’t know where all of these marijuana farms are situated and we, as homeowners, don’t know which growers follow the proper guidelines. All we can do is control the quality of our own tap water and hope that in time, we can eliminate illegal growers in our state. Many of the illegal growers use fertilizers and pesticides long restricted or banned in the United States, including carbofuran and zinc phosphide. Take control of the quality of your drinking water with a water filtration system that is able to filter and improve your tap water as you need it. Give us a call today!

When you’re a homeowner, you’re often concerned about the quality of your drinking water and any drinking water contamination that may occur. For homes with wells, testing and water treatment are left to your own responsibility. In both situations, a home drinking water system with advanced filtration technology can eliminate dangerous contaminants like that of arsenic, which can be very dangerous to humans who have it in their tap water.

In the past, there were higher levels of arsenic in drinking water because the EPA’s rules allowed for more. However, a recent report in the New York Times has some good news! Arsenic reductions in drinking water, thanks to the EPA’s revisions, and lowered allowed levels, have resulted in fewer instances of lung, bladder and skin cancers. It has only been a little over a decade that these changes were made, but we are already seeing positive results proving that arsenic contamination is deadly. This regulation does not apply to private wells, however.

How do they know? Research and survey results! Using data from a national health survey, urinary arsenic levels from 2003 were compared to those in 2014 after changes had been made and fully implemented. According to the article, they found a 17 percent reduction in arsenic levels among those using public water systems. The researchers estimate that the new rule resulted in 200 to 900 fewer lung and bladder cancers and 50 fewer skin cancers annually.

But what about the arsenic still left in our tap water? Should we be concerned? What about folks who have a private well? To reduce arsenic in drinking water, we encourage you to consider investing in a home water filter. Policies come and go, changes are made, but only you have the true power to protect the quality of your drinking water and peace of mind. You can control what is in your drinking water more than you know. We have plenty of products flexible to the water demands, budget and needs of your household. Give us a call today and let’s continue to reduce cancer rates by reducing your drinking water contamination!

The flu season this year has been unbelievable! The CDC reported that there have been almost 28,000 hospitalizations already this flu season – and that’s only the ones who actually went to the hospital with flu symptoms!

So what can you do if you get sick? One of the most common recommendations by doctors is to rest and get plenty of fluids. This is best way to help your body fight the virus. It’s also important to note that all “fluids” aren’t created equal. Drinking plenty of water will help prevent dehydration. However, the real question is, what exactly should you be drinking … coffee, tea, juices or just plain ole’ drinking water?

Drinks that ease flu symptoms

Some drinks are great for easing those awful flu symptoms, while others may make them worse. An article from WebMD listed four drinks that can help when you are sick.

Warm decaffeinated tea can help to soothe sore throats, upset tummies, stuffy noses and even chest congestion. Plus, how comforting is a warm cup of tea when you feel like covering up your head and dying? If you choose an herbal tea with ginger, your immune system may get a small boost, as well. Even better, add a small spoonful of honey to your tea – it can help soothe a cough and help you sleep.

Drinking filtered water with lemon is another great drink to try when you are feeling rough. Lemon is high in vitamin C, which may help fight off your virus and have you up and running a bit faster. Water, either hot or cold works to keep you hydrated and will help loosen up stuffiness and congestion.

Soup might not seem like your typical “drink”, but it does wonders when you drink it. The heated soup can relieve inflammation, break up mucus and give your body some much needed calories when you don’t have an appetite.

If all else fails, and you can’t seem to keep anything down, reach for the ice chips or a popsicle. They can help with hydration and will soothe a sore throat better than most things.

Drinks to avoid when you are sick

Most physicians advise against drinking sports drinks, fruit juices, ginger ale, coffee and alcohol when you are sick. The sugar in most of these drinks is not going to make you feel better and has little nutrients to improve your health. Likewise, caffeine can make you dehydrated, which isn’t good when you’re already at risk for dehydration.

If you are one of the unfortunate ones suffering from the flu this season, don’t forget your water and DRINK UP! Hopefully you will be feeling ready to conquer the world again in no time.

Do you have hard water? Are you wondering if you should do something about it? Well, before you make a decision about whether or not to treat it, we want to make sure you are armed with plenty of information first.

Does your water leave stains and residue on dishes and glassware? Are your shower and bathtub walls covered with an embarrassing film that is hard to clean? Does your hair and skin look and feel dingy and dull? Does it require an excessive amount of soaps and detergents to clean clothes or create suds?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, then it sounds like your hard water is having a bad effect on your home!

You’re certainly not alone. Research shows that about 85% of American households deal with some level of hard water – and many of those don’t treat their water with a water softener or water conditioner, simply because they don’t know what kind of treatment would work best for their particular household.

We know there are numerous products on the market today that claim to soften water, and trying to choose the right one can seem like an overwhelming task. But with a little bit more information, we can help you select which water treatment options would work best for your household’s water demands and for your individual family’s needs.

Hard Water Classifications

For starters – what actually determines a water’s hardness and what levels you should pay extra attention to?

According to the USGS, calcium and magnesium dissolved in water are the two most common minerals that make water “hard.”  The degree of hardness becomes greater as the calcium and magnesium content increases and is related to the concentration of multivalent cations dissolved in the water. To determine the classification of your water refer to the following chart.

Hard water minerals are not going to impact human health, however they are going to impact your home in many ways. From your own bathing and washing practices, to your pipes and appliances, hard water is … well HARD on a home and you!

Benefits of a Water Softener

One of the biggest benefits of installing a home water softener tends to be the decrease in time and effort spent on household chores and the amount of detergents and soaps that you’ll have to buy. Another important benefit of softening your home’s water is that you’ll reduce the risk of clogged pipes and appliances – a benefit we will get into more as you continue reading.

It is expensive to have to deal with hard water issues. From the money spent on extra soaps and detergents to replacing inefficient or failing appliances, you’ll be spending a fortune living in a home that is plagued by hard water. Your pipes can become clogged with scale that reduces water flow and ultimately requires pipe replacement – and this is not just household pipes. It includes scale and buildup in smaller appliances that will reduce their lifespan as well.

So now that you know what it is and what effect it has, let’s think about interpreting your results. The hardness of your water will be reported in grains per gallon, milligrams per liter mg/l or parts per million ppm. One grain of hardness equals 17.1 mg/l or ppm of hardness. You can refer back to the amounts listed above to see where your household water falls.

Much of this information comes from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which establishes the standards for our drinking water in this country. There are primary and secondary standards. Primary standards are based on the necessary health considerations of the tap water you consume and secondary standards are based on classifications such as taste, odor, color, corrosiveness, foaming, and staining properties of water. There is no Primary or Secondary standard for water hardness.

So we know it is a serious nuisance and we know it isn’t necessarily dangerous to our health; yet we still need to consider the removal of hard water minerals to reduce the time and tasks in our daily routine as well as to save money on replacing appliances and the extra cost of energy it takes to utilize those appliances. It has been proven that softened water allows for less energy, thus costing you less money on your energy bill.

Hard Water Solution

So how exactly can we remove these minerals and what do water softeners do?

Our water softening products use an ion exchange process in which the hard minerals are traded out for sodium. During the process, beads with a negative charge are in the resin. Calcium and magnesium in water both carry positive charges. This means that these minerals will cling to the beads as the hard water passes through the mineral tank.

The sodium collects on the beads, replacing the calcium and magnesium, which go down the drain. Once this phase is over, the mineral tank is flushed of excess brine and the brine tank is refilled. There is of course, more technical aspects to this process, but this gives you a general idea of what is happening inside the water softener.

The water softeners we sell here at Rayne of Fullerton are not only exceptionally efficient, but also extremely durable. They also come with a great warranty so you won’t have to worry that your product is going to fail leaving you in a bind.

Living with hard water can be difficult but it doesn’t have to be. We can help you replace your hard water with soft water that will not only be more enjoyable for you, but will save you time, money and effort in the long run!

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It doesn’t matter where we look these days – on a billboard, in the mail, or on television – we are constantly bombarded with messages to reduce waste, stop pollution, drink more water, and save the environment, among others. While some messages may play to current environmental trends, we really can do a lot to preserve this Earth for future generations to enjoy, and we believe it starts with how we interact with water.

Reduce, re-use, recycle.

Many of us have grown up with the 3 R’s of environmental responsibility; reduce, re-use, recycle. But what does that have to do with water? Well, we believe it has a LOT to do with it.

Water conservation

Many areas of the world, including California, suffer from drought at various times throughout the year, making water conservation an important environmental aspect to consider. At the same time, much of California is faced with the pesky reality of hard water, making water softening systems a must-have for most homeowners. Many traditional water softeners, however, are salt-based, discharging large volumes of salt, potassium, and water into septic systems each day. This wastes water and the salt discharge can be harmful to the environment.

So, what is the eco-friendly solution?

One option is using a Portable Exchange (P.E.) Tank Soft Water Service. The water is conditioned off site at a state of the art facility, stored in portable tanks, and transported to your home by a water service technician. Once the tanks are empty, they are returned to the same facility for regeneration and re-use. Not only does this mean less time required by you to maintain a water softener system, it also means that no household water is wasted, and salt discharge is kept out of your septic. Furthermore, the portable exchange tanks do not use electricity, so your utility bill will be reduced, when compared to using a traditional home water softener system.

Drinking water

While water conservation measures are important when it comes to household and commercial water use, most experts agree that the opposite is true when it comes to our own health; we need to use MORE water, in the form of drinking it.

Some research estimates that 4 out of every 10 Americans DON’T drink enough water, and that includes many older adults. Some use the excuse that they don’t like the taste of water, while others say it just isn’t convenient. Thus, the advent of the plastic water bottle – a promise of fresh tasting water that is convenient to take on the go.

It appears that many more Americans are getting the “drink more water” message, as studies show that over half a billion bottles of water are purchased every week in the United States.

While bottled water may be a good solution for getting people to increase their water intake, it has proved to have negative environmental effects. A lot of energy is used in the making of the plastic and the transport of the finished goods, yet most bottles are used only once.

Furthermore, harmful chemicals in the plastic can find their way into the ground when people choose to throw the bottles away instead of recycling them. In fact, about 80% of disposable plastic water bottles never get recycled and instead, end up taking years to decompose in the landfill.

Is there an eco-friendly solution for drinking more water while also protecting the environment?

Drinking water solutions at home

The answer is YES! There’s no reason you can’t have great tasting water and save the Earth too. At home, a great place to start is with a Reverse Osmosis (RO) Drinking Water System. An RO system fits under your sink and provides filtered water through a separate faucet.

The benefits of a Reverse Osmosis System include a continuous supply of safe, filtered water that is obtained simply by turning on the faucet. Just fill up your cup or re-usable bottle and drink! No need to lug cases of bottled water home from the store, keep them stashed in the pantry, and then cart them to the fridge to get cold. That also means fewer trips to the recycling bin with disposable plastic bottles and less waste making its way to the landfill because of those who don’t recycle.

Water filtered through an RO system also tastes great, making it easy to drink on its own. There is also the added benefit of improving the taste of your coffee, tea, juice, oatmeal, or any other food prepared with water.

Drinking water at work or on the go

So, what if you don’t stay at home all the time? Is there still a way to drink more, fresh, great-tasting water when you go to work or go out to run errands? Of course! The answer is a convenient water cooler, perfect for home or on the job.

If you have a Reverse Osmosis system at your tap, you can always fill your travel mug or bottle with great tasting water to go, but if you don’t, a water cooler will provide the same convenience. In fact, contrary to what the name might imply, a water cooler can also provide hot water at the flip of a switch, making it an easy solution to make tea or instant coffee to enjoy now or later. Water coolers are available for both home and office use and are maintained for a low monthly fee that still allows you to save money over using bottled water.

Environmental responsibility starts with YOU

 As you can see, there are ways that each of us can get the water we want and need, and still be environmentally responsible. Contact us today to get the eco-friendly water solution that makes the most sense for you.

August is National Water Quality Month, so it’s a prime time to think about where our drinking water comes from and whether or not it’s free from contamination. And, although designating months to causes like this to raise awareness is a great idea, it’s important to consider water quality all year long.

How do we get quality water?

In this country, many of us don’t even consider where our water comes from on a daily basis. We take it for granted that when we turn on the tap, clean drinking water will come out, and we can go about our daily lives. Fortunately, most of us DO enjoy clean, quality water, but it doesn’t come without effort.

In the U.S., the Environmental Protection Agency has been tasked with putting standards in place that regulate local water authorities and how they track water contaminants. This is especially important because the water we use goes into wastewater facilities which then treat the water and send it back out to consumers.

What can the average person do to improve water quality?

Although the government regulates how public water facilities treat wastewater, this doesn’t cover water that never reaches the wastewater plant. Some water goes down our drains and out into personal sewers, and other water gets used around our homes or property for things like irrigation or washing cars. In these cases, the water drains directly into the groundwater instead of going to a treatment plant.

Here are a few things we all can do to keep that water as clean and contaminant-free as possible:

• Clean up after your animals
  Animal waste contains contaminants such as e. coli which can make their way into the groundwater. Using alternate disposal methods can help prevent these contaminants from reaching our drinking water.
• Don’t wash your car at home
  Instead, use the commercial car wash. Public car wash facilities have drains that feed water directly into the city sewer system which then goes to a wastewater treatment plant for decontamination.
• Use the garbage can
  Instead of rinsing medications or toxic paint down the drain, put them in the trash can. This will help prevent the harmful chemicals that are in them from reaching our drinking water.
• Be mindful of fertilizers and pesticides
  Using these chemicals are sometimes necessary, but environmentally-friendly options are available that won’t cause groundwater contamination.
• Join a community clean-up group
  Many neighborhoods have groups that work to clean up the environment, and together we can make a difference.

Finally, it’s great to practice all of the tips mentioned above, but if you’re still unsure whether or not your own personal water is safe to drink, you can always install a drinking water system in your home. Then, you will be sure to have safe, quality drinking water all year long.

Hard water really makes life … well … hard! There are some extra minerals in hard water that can be hard to remove on a daily basis. Magnesium and calcium are usually more present than just those hydrogen and oxygen atoms. Groundwater often percolates through limestone where it picks up calcium and magnesium deposits. While it isn’t really dangerous to humans, it can create issues with skin and hair, as well as dishes and clogging pipes. You’re not alone! The U.S. Geological Survey says 85% of homes in the nation have hard water! Could you?

What are the signs of hard water?

Do any of these issues sound familiar? If so, you likely have hard water and could really benefit from a home water softener to remove the excess minerals.

• Funny tasting or smelling water – If your water smells like rotten eggs, it could be naturally occurring hydrogen sulfide gas or certain bacteria reacting with magnesium to form sulfates. Some people say the water also tastes like … dirt … due to sediments in the water of course.
• Strange stains appear and reappear. Hideous and embarrassing brown or reddish stains on porcelain or shower walls is a common sign. Although they look like rust, it’s the minerals (could be rust from the pipes too) causing the discoloration which takes a LOT of extra elbow grease to remove.
• Tons of soap scum. Do you have to scrub soap scum constantly? The white, hard water spots do not go away. When water evaporates, it leaves calcium deposits behind. They seem to be everywhere! It makes dishes look dirty (embarrassing!) but they really aren’t. In the bathroom, soap scum left on shower curtains can lead to the development of a microbial biofilm that might contain disease-spreading bacteria. Yikes! It takes more cleaning products to do the work.
• Showering seems problematic. Are you lacking a lather? Is there a film of soapy residue on your skin after you do shower? Yeah … that’s hard water. Bad hair days? Same.
• Clogged pipes. Showerheads can clog, but so do your pipes and this can cause major plumbing issues. Scale builds up inside constricting the flow of water and eventually leads to bursts or backups. Can you say money?
• Clothes aren’t cleaned well. Calcium and magnesium don’t work well with water, so they don’t really rinse off soaps and detergents well. Soil can actually build up on your clothes, rather than washing removing it. Clothes often look dingy and wear out fast (more money!).
• Skin irritation. Hard water tends to dry out people’s skin. Eczema is common when you have hard water. There is research indicating that bathing in hard water could cause eczema symptoms to worsen.
• Worn appliances. This is an expensive hard water problem. From your dishwasher to your water heater, if there’s hard water involved, it could require premature replacement. Plus, they’ll be inefficient. A build-up of hard minerals in your water heater can make it far less efficient. The same goes for other appliances. Poor efficiency means bigger utility bills.

Water Softeners Can Save You Money!

It’s not difficult to see how hard water can cost you money in the long run. In fact, it is estimated that hard water expenses could cost you $800 or more every year! That’s some pretty impressive savings!

There are different types of water conditioners and home water softeners for the various needs, demands and sizes of your households. Our water softeners will condition your water right at the source so hard water minerals are removed early. The perfect solution to your difficult problem is right here!

With California battling some of the worst wildfires right now, it is important to be aware of the many aspects of everyday life that they will affect. Right now, we are concerned about the loss that so many residents are facing; loss of homes, loss of land and even loss of life. And while they are seemingly common here in California, their impact is lasting and we want everyone to know how the future of drinking water will or could be affected.

The Importance of Forests on our Drinking Water

In California, for example, a lot of our water is sourced from forest lands. According to one report, approximately 80 percent of all freshwater in the United States, is from forested land. Along with this, more than 3,400 public drinking water systems are located in watersheds containing national forest lands. During a wildfire, many of these watersheds and water sources can be burned down or eliminated, flooded or changed. More than 12 million acres of land, including important forested water-supply watersheds, have burned in the southwestern U.S. in the past 30 years.

The Effects on Drinking Water

There are various ways that our drinking water will be affected by a wildfire. The short-term effects include things like ash settling on lakes and reservoirs where we get water for drinking water supplies. Furthermore, burn areas are more prone to erosion which will increase the amount of sediment accumulating in water resources. Not to mention the water used to fight the fires; if fire retardant gets into surface water that is used for drinking water, it may cause temporary increases in nitrate/nitrite levels and/or water cloudiness. These potential impacts are considerable – they change the quantity and quality of our water sources. Now, we have less water to treat and more contaminants to treat whether we’re using the water for domestic, agricultural, industrial, safety or ecological reasons.

Long term effects include things like increased water contamination and the need for more treatment of our tap water (which also requires more money), post-wildfire precipitation affecting water sources, changes in watersheds and local ecology and more.

How Will Drinking Water Stay Safe?

Local municipalities and officials are always attempting to find ways to keep drinking water safe during and after wildfires. Nature can be unpredictable, though, so sometimes we need to take matters into our own hands until there is an actual plan. Water treatment plants will do their best to reduce contaminants, but a home drinking water system or home water filter may also be a good investment to reduce the impact of wildfires on your home’s tap water. We offer a number of products that can protect the quality of your drinking water and keep your family safe from all of the impacts that wildfires have on your water – we wish we could help keep everyone safe in general! We are sending thoughts and prayers to those affected by the raging wildfires as the last burns are slowly and finally being put out.

Lead in drinking water has made the news much more frequently and it hasn’t been for good reasons. Lead can have some devastating effects on the water and in the community. The one positive that comes out of all of these stories, however, is increased public awareness and the desire to protect your household’s drinking water from lead contamination.

How does lead get into our drinking water?

Lead is a very pervasive environmental contaminant. It can enter drinking water sources when lead water pipes corrode. According to the EPA, the most common problem for lead contamination is with brass or chrome-plated brass faucets and fixtures with lead solder. This is where significant amounts of lead can enter into the water, especially from the hot water. Homes built before 1986 are more likely to have lead pipes, fixtures and solder, thus making them more at risk of lead in drinking water.

Changes started for the better decades ago.

According to the CDC, beginning in the 1970s, lead contamination in air, tap water, food, dust, and soil began to be “substantially reduced, resulting in significantly reduced blood lead levels (BLLs) in children throughout the United States.” However, children are still being exposed to lead even today. Many of these children live in housing built before the 1978 ban on lead-based residential paint. Public awareness of these dangers is increasing and this means that demands for change are too.

Are there safe limits we can consume?

This question, of course, is a tricky one. Most people don’t want lead in drinking water at all – which is why a home drinking water system or water filter is recommended. However, the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) has reduced the maximum allowable lead content – that is considered “lead-free” – to be a weighted average of 0.25 percent calculated across the wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings, and fixtures and 0.2 percent for solder and flux.

So what adverse health effects are we talking about?

Here’s the most important part of this article. These adverse effects regarding lead exposure in both children and adults are well documented and no safe blood/lead level has been identified.

Since lead can be ingested from multiple sources like lead paint and dust as well as through contaminated drinking water via old corroded lead pipes, it is dangerous. The severity of the health effects depends on the concentration of the lead, the total amount of lead consumed and the length of time of the lead exposure.

Young children, infants, and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to lead because the physical and behavioral effects of lead occur at lower exposure levels in children than in adults. With kids, low levels of exposure have been linked to damage to the central and peripheral nervous system, learning disabilities, shorter stature, impaired hearing, and impaired formation and function of blood cells. Low levels of exposure also have been linked to behavior and learning problems and anemia to name a few.

What can we do to protect our drinking water?

Our reverse osmosis drinking water systems will reduce lead levels in your drinking water. They will also improve water quality by removing other harmful contaminants as well. By protecting your drinking water point of use (faucets), you can rest assured that your drinking water is safe for your family and guests. Investing in your own protection, as experts and officials continue to brainstorm ways to fund and improve our community drinking water systems, will be worth every penny!

These days, we are all pretty familiar with the topic of drinking water contamination. We know that there are potential contaminants that could be dangerous for our health. We know we deserve better. Finally, the EPA agrees. In addition to what they already do, the EPA has declared a plan to regulate a set of harmful chemicals found in the drinking water of millions of Americans. There are still many contaminants that go unregulated, but could be causing us all harm when consumed in large quantities – and who knows if we are?!

What water contaminant regulation is the EPA planning?

According to an article in U.S. News & World Report, the EPA announced that they would “address contamination from widely used chemicals found in everything from food packaging to nonstick cookware, paint, carpeting, dental floss and firefighting foam, which have been linked to a range of potential health impacts including liver damage, developmental delays and cancer.” Whoa… these chemicals could be in all of that stuff? Yes.

What does this have to do with our drinking water?

Well, the contamination of the chemicals found in the things mentioned above means that these chemicals can end up in our water. The agency has the goal of limiting “two types of common per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS: a pair of chemicals known as PFOA and PFOS.” Although they are no longer being produced, they’re STILL found in some drinking water supplies! Wherever these chemicals were produced or utilized, it could be in the water.

What will be done?

According to the EPA, they plan to “expand monitoring efforts and issue groundwater cleanup recommendations for sites contaminated by PFOA and PFOs.” This is the main priority of the plan.

What can be done to protect drinking water now?

Are you concerned? It’s normal to worry about what’s in your tap water. If you don’t currently have a drinking water system installed, adding one to your home could be a good move. Until these efforts are actually put in place and ALL harmful contaminants are regulated, treated, or removed, you can make your own drinking water safer for you and your loved ones.

Drinking water contaminants are dangerous to human health. Although many of our communities treat our water, there is still the potential for contamination via other means after the water has been processed by these facilities. Furthermore, if you have a private well, you’re on your own for testing and treating your water. Check out some of our water filters and take part in the national efforts for making our drinking water safer, purer and better for everyone!

Action from above is good… but action from the people affected is great.

As the heat continues to rise, there’s really no place to be like a pool, lake, beach or the water, splashing around to cool off. Sometimes, we overlook who is confident in their swimming abilities, especially when it comes to children. For others, it can be a very frightening thought when it comes to children swimming.  We usually talk about tips for quality drinking water or drinking water systems for your home. This time around, however, we want to talk about water safety in a different aspect.

Swimming Safety Tips

Here are some IMPORTANT things to remember when it comes to keeping babies and children safe when around water:

• Active supervision is the best tip of all; your undivided attention should be given to children in and around open bodies of water. An adult should always be in arms reach of a toddler or baby, no multitasking. Take turns watching the water with other adults if necessary, never walk away for any reason or any amount of time.
• Start slow with babies; babies can be introduced to water around 6 months of age, but this should happen slowly and with a trained adult. Use waterproof or swimming diapers and change them frequently.
• Educate kids about swimming safety; enroll kids in swimming lessons when ready. Make sure kids swim in designated areas only. Teach kids that open water swimming is different than in a pool. Even older kids should always swim with a partner and be sure to teach them to only swim when adults are present.
• Don’t rely on swimming aids; pool toys are fun but they should never be used in place of an S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD).
• Learn CPR; if you have a pool or take children swimming often, it is safer and you’ll have more peace of mind.
• Take extra steps around the pool; set rules like no running and be sure to have gates and fences. Empty refillable or portable pools without covers no matter how shallow, and install window or door alarms.
• Check the drains; educate kids about the dangers of drains, and always check for cracks or loose covers.
• Instill confidence in swimmers; even for inexperienced swimmers, proper positive reinforcement is important. But don’t overdo it – kids still need to be cautious!

Stay safer this summer by following these and more tips for swimming and water safety with your kids.

Filtered drinking water is becoming more common in households around the country thanks to the increased media coverage on what happens to people, towns and communities when drinking water sources are contaminated and public health becomes at-risk. When you invest in a home drinking water system, you create a peace of mind in your household in knowing that you and your family will be able to drink pure, high-quality and safe drinking water without risking your health.

We’re lucky – we enjoy great drinking water

It’s true – the United States has some of the best drinking water in the world. But, we still have many areas where drinking water is contaminated, and those contaminants are causing harm to human health. We rely on water for just about everything – drinking, bathing, cooking, cleaning, etc. But, a lot of tap water could host unwanted additives –  pesticides, prescription drugs, chlorine, arsenic, and other contaminants.

Drinking water dangers and risks

Unfortunately, you could be at risk. When you assume that your home’s drinking water is totally safe and pure, you could actually be consuming harmful contaminants which could cause serious health issues. These might include neurological disorders, gastrointestinal illness, and problems in both male and female reproductive systems. Infants, children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems are most at risk. If you or someone you love falls under one of those categories, you’ll want to think a bit more about how your home’s drinking water could harm them.

The safe drinking water solution

In order to remove some of the most common contaminants (and the rest, too) such as arsenic, aluminum, chlorine, fluoride and lead, a water filter is your best bet. According to a recent article on the topic, “by removing contaminants in your water, you reduce your exposure to many toxins that can negatively impact your health.” Filtered drinking water will be free of contaminants, may reduce the risk of certain cancers, tastes and smells better, and removes harmful bacteria as well. With our reverse osmosis , you’ll produce plenty of pure drinking water each day, worry less about what is in your water, and more about how to get your family to drink more water. You can check out our products for filtered drinking water here.

Water is an essential part of human existence, there’s no doubt about that. From personal care activities like showering and doing laundry, to watering our lawns and washing cars, water plays a big role in our daily lives. With the human body being composed of approximately 60% water, it also affects our health. The question arises, then, does it matter what type of water we drink? Is hard water harmful to drink?

What is hard water and where is it?

According to some statistics, close to 85% of the U.S. has hard water. This is water containing high amounts of calcium and magnesium, measured in milligrams of calcium carbonate per liter. Any water with a value of 61 mg/L or greater is considered hard, with classifications including various degrees of hardness. Looking at a water hardness map of the U.S., you will see that the highest levels occur in southwestern states like Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, Kansas, and Southern California, although hard water is prevalent throughout the entire Midwest as well.

Effects of hard water

Homeowners living with it know that there are several negative effects of hard water. These include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Dry and itchy skin
• Soap scum buildup on sinks and other fixtures
• Water stains on silverware and dishes
• Clogged plumbing in water-using appliances
• Dull laundry
• And more…

Can drinking hard water have negative health effects?

If hard water can affect so many areas of the home, it’s natural to wonder if drinking it is harmful to our health. After all, if the “extra” minerals in hard water build up in the plumbing and on household fixtures, do they do the same inside our bodies?

Many research studies have been done, and continue to be done, on this very subject. So far, the general consensus of current research is that drinking hard water is not harmful to our health. This may be because the human body actually needs minerals like calcium and magnesium, and uses them to support bodily functions, unlike the plumbing in our homes which has no use for them so they just build up over time.

Some research has shown that instead of being detrimental to our health, drinking hard water may actually be helpful. Not all, but some, of these studies showed a positive correlation between drinking hard water and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The results are by no means conclusive, however, and further research must be done to validate these results.

Water testing and treatment

Although drinking hard water may not be harmful to the human body, it is clear that it has detrimental effects within a home, as mentioned above. If you suspect that you have hard water, your first step should be to get your household water tested. At Rayne of Fullerton, we even offer a free water test with no obligations attached. This makes it easy for you to know exactly what’s in your water and whether any impurities in it could be causing negative effects in your home.

If a water test confirms the presence of hard water, you then have multiple water treatment options to choose from, including:

• Water softeners
• Whole house water systems
• Drinking water systems
• Drinking water filters
• De-ionized water systems
• Portable exchange tank service

What’s the best way to find out the difference between all of these options? Contact us and we will be happy to help you make the choice that makes the most sense for you and your family. Great water is just a phone call away!

Salt is salt, right? When it comes to water softener salt, that statement isn’t exactly true. There are several different salt varieties, some of which are better for your water softener than others. Let’s take a look at the 3 most common types and the pros and cons of each.

Types of water softener salt

1. Rock Salt – Typically mined underground, rock salt is salt in its rawest form. It is the result of many (like hundreds or thousands) years of accumulating salt deposits. It also contains traces of other minerals, so it is not 100% pure. For this reason, it is often cheaper than other types of salt.

While rock salt can be used in water softeners, it is not highly recommended. This is primarily because the other minerals included with it are not always water-soluble. This means they are left behind in your water softener’s brine tank and can build up over time. If rock salt is used in your home water treatment system, the tank will need to be cleaned on a regular basis to enable your system to continue to function properly.

2. Solar Salt – Also known as sea salt, this product is the result of the evaporation of seawater. Salt crystals are typically harvested and then sold as pellets when their intended use is for water softeners. Solar salt has fewer impurities and dissolves faster than rock salt. It can, however, still lead to build up over time, even though it is purer.

3. Evaporated Salt – This third type of salt commonly used in water softeners is the purest and most water-soluble. It is created by dissolving salty deposits in the water, and then removing all of the moisture from the brine. It is very effective in the treatment of hard water, and is the healthiest option for your home water softening system.

What happens when the wrong type of water softener salt is used?

Any of the three salt options above can be used for water softening. Using rock or solar salt, however, leads to a higher likelihood of the creation of a salt bridge versus using evaporated salt. A salt bridge is a buildup of salt crystals at the top of the tank and can interfere with your water softener’s functioning. It can be caused by several factors, including using salt with higher impurity levels.

Water softener maintenance

Regardless of what type of salt you choose to use in your home water softener, regular water softener maintenance is important for protecting your investment and extending its usable life. There are also maintenance-free water softening options available, such as our Portable Exchange Tank Service. Give us a call today and we’ll be happy to set you up with the best water softening system for your home, or help you maintain your existing system.

Who wants the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? We all do! Sometimes we get confused, however, when we read or hear of different opinions, “new” facts, and the latest trends. It happens all the time in the water treatment industry, and we’d like to clear up a few misconceptions. Here are some of the most common water softener myths and their corresponding truths:

Myth #1: It’s unsafe to drink soft water

There have been many research studies conducted on this topic alone. The general consensus – softened water can contain a trace amount of salt, but usually not enough to be of any health concern. The exception to this would be someone with very strict salt consumption guidelines – if this is you, consult your doctor to find out the best solution for your personal situation. For the general public, however, drinking soft water does not pose any threats to your health.

Myth #2: Water softeners aren’t worth the expense of operating them

On the contrary … water softeners actually save you money.

Yes, they do cost something to operate – electricity, salt supplies, and required maintenance – but the benefits certainly outweigh the expense. For example, the number of soaps, detergents, and cleaners needed in your household can be reduced by up to 75% simply by using a home water softener!

Myth #3: Water can be softened without salt

The truth on this one can be a little tricky. Yes, water can be treated without using salt. Contaminants can be removed and magnetic or electronic devices can sometimes treat water in such a way that it prevents scale buildup in plumbing and water fixtures. Without salt, however, hard water is not truly softened and you won’t get the same soft water feel that you’re looking for.

Myth #4: It’s hard to get clean with soft water

Actually, you get cleaner with soft water, when compared to using hard water.

The negative effects of hard water are many and can include soap and mineral buildup on skin and hair, leaving your skin dry and itchy, and your hair limp and brittle.

Myth #5: Water softeners and water purifiers are the same

No … they’re not.

Water softeners do just what their name implies – soften water. This occurs by removing excess minerals from the water, typically calcium and magnesium, through a process known as ion exchange. They are often used to treat all water entering a home so that the negative effects of hard water won’t take their toll on appliances, fixtures, and even people.

In contrast, water purifiers, or reverse osmosis systems, are typically used to treat drinking water by filtering out contaminants and making for great tasting water that is also safe to drink.

If this isn’t enough to clear up any questions you have about water softeners, have no fear … our qualified technicians are perfectly up to the job! Just give us a call and we’ll be happy to help you with all of your water treatment needs – big or small.

“Drink more water … drink more water.” It’s a common message in the media these days, especially since drinking water has been proven to have many health benefits. Furthermore, as our society becomes busier and we all try to fit more into each day, we tend to look for convenient ways to get more water – hence, the popularity of bottled water. What many people don’t know, however, is that hidden contaminants in the water they drink could actually be sabotaging their health instead of improving it.

Disadvantages of bottled water

While it is true that bottled water is convenient, easily accessible, and portable, some would argue that its disadvantages far outweigh its advantages. Here are just a few of the reasons why bottled water may not be your best choice when trying to manage or increase your water intake:

• Costs more money – It is far cheaper to get safe, great-tasting water from a water filter at your tap than buying bottled water.
• Higher energy cost – Greater energy is required to manufacture plastic bottles, fill them, and then transport the finished product than is required to filter water at the tap and fill a reusable glass or stainless steel bottle.
• Environmental concerns – Even though most bottled water is housed in bottles that are recyclable, studies have shown that less than half of them actually do get recycled. That means more garbage in landfills and anywhere else they get left behind.
• Subject to less scrutiny – Municipal water sources are required to undergo water testing at regular intervals and publish the test results for community members to see … not so with bottled water. Even though it looks clear and sparkling, there may be hidden contaminants in bottled water that could actually be dangerous to your health.
• Plastic problems – The plastic bottle itself can contain various chemicals, byproducts, and impurities that can make their way into the water it holds. That means when you down a bottle of water, you could be getting more than you bargained for.

Filtered water – the bottled water alternative

Fortunately, there is still a way to get great tasting water that’s convenient and safe to drink – introducing the home water filter. There’s no need to lug cases of bottled water from the store to your car, from the car into the house, and then into the fridge.

Instead, install a water filter, such as a reverse osmosis (RO) system, right under your kitchen sink and enjoy fresh, clean drinking water straight from the tap all day long. When you need to take it to go, just fill a glass or stainless steel reusable bottle.

Water filter ownership and maintenance

Rayne makes having a home water filtration system easy. You can either purchase your system, adding to the equity of your home, or you can lease it and let Rayne handle any maintenance and repairs needed. Either way, you set yourself up for a healthier alternative to bottled water.

Give us a call today and start enjoying clean, fresh water from the tap that you can depend on every single day. You win, the environment wins – everyone wins!

You’ve probably heard the old saying “you are what you eat.” It seems logical – eat fattening foods, you get fat. Eat healthy foods, you get healthy … simple enough. Here’s another saying that’s true … “you are what you drink.” Drink clean, safe water and you get or stay healthy. Drink contaminated water, and you get … well, contaminated!

Water contamination has long been a serious concern, especially when it affects our drinking water. Many people associate poor quality drinking water with third world nations, and not the United States. Since the Flint, MI water crisis, however, Americans are beginning to see that some of our own water supplies are not as clean and safe as we thought they were. Lead in drinking water, for example, continues to make headlines and be a cause of concern throughout the country.

How does lead get into your drinking water?

With today’s water treatment technology and the knowledge of the danger of lead poisoning, how exactly do we get lead in our drinking water in the first place?  Don’t local governments test municipal water supplies, treat water for public consumption, and do their best to provide water that is safe to drink?

Yes, they do. It’s not enough to prevent lead contamination, however. Sometimes contaminants enter the water after it’s already been treated. If you had the best water in the world, it would become dirty and contaminated if you put it in a muddy bucket. The same thing happens with our water supply.

When water is transported from water treatment plants or individual wells, it passes through pipes. Today’s standard is for those pipes to be made of copper or PVC, but that wasn’t always so. Pipes used to be made from lead, and some copper pipes are even connected with lead solder. As these pipes corrode over time, lead leaches into the water that is then transported to our homes, schools, workplaces, etc. Lead pipes and connectors have gradually been replaced but some do still remain.

How do you know if lead is in your water?

Lead, like some other water contaminants, can be especially dangerous because it cannot be seen, tasted, or smelled. You might have a new house or an old house with new plumbing, and think you’re completely safe from lead contamination. This is not the case, however, if the pipes leading to the house have lead in them.

Communities with municipal water are required to periodically test their water for contaminants and release the test results to the public. This is a great start. The only way to know for sure that your water is safe, however, is to have the water coming from your own tap tested. We make it easy for you – contact us and get a free water test today so you can know for sure that you’re drinking safe water.

Dangers of lead poisoning from water contamination

You might be wondering why lead in water is such a problem. After all, hard water contains metals that aren’t always hazardous to your health, so what’s the big deal? The problem is that lead poisoning has been shown to lead to serious health issues, especially for pregnant women and children, but also for adults. Some common side effects of lead poisoning include:

• Brain damage
• Developmental delays
• Behavior problems
• Kidney disease
• High blood pressure
• And more …

Best way to remove lead from water

There’s no reason for you or your loved ones to suffer from lead poisoning due to contaminated water. If your water test reveals the presence of lead, the easiest way to remove it is through a reverse osmosis (RO) system. Distillation and carbon filtration are other acceptable methods to remove lead, but RO systems have become the most widely used due to their effectiveness, low energy and production cost, and ease of maintenance.

An RO system purifies water by pushing it through a series of filters. These filters allow water to pass through but contaminants, such as lead, are left behind. You’re left with clean water that is safe to drink and tastes great.

So, before you pour that next glass of water, contact us for a water test and RO system. Then, you can sit back, relax, and drink to your heart’s content!

When you’ve made an investment in a water softener, you want to get the most out of your decision. Similar to vehicles and  our other appliances, maintenance for water softeners  is essential for optimal performance and avoiding costly repairs and breakdowns. 

How often are you having your home water softening system serviced? What types of maintenance should you be getting? Is your water softener working like it should be? These are all great questions, and we have some information you’ll want to know. Don’t forget that we also offer our Portable Exchange Tank service where you won’t have to worry about the maintenance or changing out your full tanks at all!

Hard Water Truths

Hard water is simply abrasive by nature. Your water softener is working hard, day after day, to remove stubborn minerals. Some locations have harder water and higher mineral content than others, pushing it even more. While most water softeners are meant to last years without major maintenance, repairs or replacement, seasonal maintenance is always a good idea. Regular checks and cleaning will extend their lifetime and keep them working as they were meant to be.

Water Softener Servicing Needs

You’ll want to check the brine tank monthly or regularly.  The type of salt or water softener you have will impact the cleaning and frequency. Our water softening systems do come with various warranties for parts, but it doesn’t mean you won’t want to have it cleaned so it is working better. Here are some other maintenance items you’ll want to pay attention to:

• Be on the lookout for leaks or drainage issues.  
• You’ll want to pay attention to the type of salt required. Some water softeners require very specific types and brands or grades of salt, but consumers use something else and it impacts the quality of the water and effectiveness.
• If your product is outside in the cooler air, or if you’ll be gone for longer periods of time this winter and won’t be using your softener, winterization may be necessary.

When to Call For Water Softener Service

Older and traditional models tend to need more frequent cleanings, but newer models can be cleaned annually. You’ll want to give us a call if your water has turned hard and basic maintenance doesn’t fix the problem within a couple days.  

We can help get your water softener back on track – emptying the tank, checking valves and taking it apart is best left to the professionals.  We can help guide you with the smaller maintenance items it needs.

Also, water softeners work hard during the summer months when demands tend to be higher. According to the EPA, an average family can use 320 gallons of water per day, but that can go up to 1,000 gallons for summer days.  It is a good idea to have us come check our products during the warm weather and then again after the summer, or during the winter months.

Not sure you want to bother with any maintenance at all? Check out our Portable Exchange Tank Service where we do the maintenance and change your tank for you!